President Neufeld visits CSC Atlantic Regional Headquarters to discuss the “new normal” with members

National President David Neufeld visited Correctional Service of Canada’s Atlantic Regional Headquarters in Moncton, New Brunswick, on Friday, July 15. He was accompanied by Laurie Ann Wesselby, CSC Regional Vice-President Atlantic, and USJE Director of Labour Relations, Rebecca Thompson. 

They were greeted by the acting ADCIS, Roger Poirier, and given a tour of the facility.

The visit allowed them an opportunity to talk with members about the “new normal” and what it was like working through the COVID-19 pandemic in their various roles at Regional Headquarters (RHQ). It was evident that many members continue to work off site and that a gradual re-entry was being used at RHQ for certain USJE members. 

Mr. Poirier shared the Region’s commitment to “experimentation” throughout the next number of months, and preparations for the fall, when it is hoped that the new normal may be established. 

President Neufeld made it clear that USJE’s position is that CSC’s transition to the new normal must be fair, consistent, transparent and flexible. He was able to have many good conversations with managers as well, regarding the need to keep the health and safety of our members at the forefront in this pandemic. He emphasized that managers should be creative and not rigid in their approach to developing the new normal.

RVP Laurie Ann Wesselby plans to visit the Regional Headquarters again in the future and will assist the local in ensuring that newer members are signed up with the union.